Vision blurring with contact lenses, especially upon blinking, is a common issue for many wearers. This phenomenon, ranging from slight haziness to significant distortion, often prompts individuals to seek solutions. Understanding the underlying reasons and how to address them can improve comfort and visual quality, helping maintain clear vision.
Why Your Vision Blurs
The tear film plays an important role in maintaining clear vision and contact lens comfort, providing a smooth, optically clear surface over the eye and lens. Blinking redistributes this tear film, essential for corneal moisture. When the tear film is unstable or inadequate, vision can become blurry, especially after a blink.
A common cause of blurry vision with contact lenses is dry eyes, a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or tears of sufficient quality. This can lead to lenses drying out and feeling uncomfortable, causing blurriness that may temporarily improve with blinking. Deposits of protein, lipids, and environmental debris, such as dust or makeup, can accumulate on the lens surface, scattering light and making vision appear cloudy. Improper cleaning or extended wear schedules contribute to this buildup.
Contact lenses that do not fit correctly can cause blurring; a loose lens might shift excessively with each blink, while a tight one can restrict tear flow and oxygen. Blurring can also occur if the contact lens prescription is outdated or if lenses are worn past their recommended replacement schedule, as expired lenses can degrade, lose their shape, and become less permeable to oxygen. Underlying conditions such as allergies can cause excessive tearing or inflammation, preventing lenses from sitting properly and leading to blurriness. Certain medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants, can reduce tear production, contributing to dry eyes and blurred vision. Conditions affecting the meibomian glands in the eyelids, which produce the oily layer of the tear film, can also lead to tear film instability and blurry vision.
Immediate Steps and Daily Habits
When experiencing blurry vision with contact lenses, several immediate actions can provide relief. Blinking more frequently and completely can redistribute the tear film across the lens surface, temporarily improving clarity. Using rewetting drops specifically formulated for contact lenses can rehydrate the lens and eye, unlike saline solutions used for rinsing. If the lens feels uncomfortable or appears dirty, carefully removing it, cleaning it thoroughly with fresh solution, and reinserting it can clear away debris and improve vision.
Establishing consistent daily habits is important for preventing recurring blurry vision. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling contact lenses to prevent transferring oils, dirt, or bacteria. Adhering to the recommended replacement schedule for lenses, whether daily, weekly, or monthly, minimizes deposit accumulation and reduces blurred vision. Staying well-hydrated supports overall tear production and helps maintain lens moisture. Protecting eyes from environmental factors like wind, dry air, and airborne irritants by wearing protective eyewear can reduce dryness and debris settling on lenses.
When to See an Eye Doctor
While many instances of blurry contact lens vision can be resolved with self-care, certain symptoms indicate a need for professional medical attention. If blurring persists despite immediate solutions and good daily habits, an eye doctor should be consulted. Other concerning symptoms include eye pain, redness, excessive tearing, or unusual discharge. Sensitivity to light or sudden changes in vision also warrant prompt evaluation.
An eye care professional can diagnose the underlying cause of persistent blurring, which might range from an updated prescription to an ill-fitting lens or an undiagnosed eye condition. They can adjust lens parameters, recommend different lens materials, or prescribe specific treatments for conditions like severe dry eye or meibomian gland dysfunction. Ignoring persistent symptoms can lead to serious complications, such as eye infections or corneal damage. Regular eye examinations are important for maintaining eye health and ensuring contact lenses remain safe and effective.